The 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) organized by the Joint Admission and Matriculations Board (JAMB) began smoothly across the country, with examinations taking place in over 700 designated centres after months of thorough preparations.
Although there were a few reported cases of internet glitches, the JAMB officials have assured that any challenges faced by candidates will not affect their fair participation in the examination.
During a press briefing in Kogo-Bwari, Abuja, the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyode, expressed disapproval towards certain corporate bodies and individuals who hastily offer scholarships to candidates who are perceived to be top performers or highest scorers. He mentioned that such actions undermine the credibility of the examination process.
There were controversies surrounding the 2023 UTME after a candidate, Mmesoma, claimed to be the highest scorer and received a scholarship worth N3 million from Innocent Chukwuma, Chairman of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing. However, JAMB later debunked Mmesoma’s claim, revealing that she manipulated her results with the use of a mobile phone.
Addressing the issue, Oloyede emphasized that JAMB discourages the practice of awarding scholarships solely based on UTME performance, as other important admission criteria are often overlooked.
He highlighted the significance of considering factors like O Level results, Post-UTME scores, and physical fitness assessments for certain institutions before determining the best candidates for admission.
As the 2024 UTME commenced, Oloyede urged candidates who encountered any challenges during the examination to remain patient as they would be given the opportunity to reschedule their tests.
He reassured that the UTME was progressing smoothly, with only one centre reportedly facing issues so far.
Oloyede reminded the public that technical failures may occur in some centres due to varying levels of infrastructure across the country. He urged affected candidates to cooperate and not disrupt the examination process.
JAMB had also authorized owners of Computer Based Centres (CBTs) to apprehend parents who are found near the examination halls, as they are often linked to aiding and abetting examination malpractices.